McIntosh Stereo Amplifier C2300 User Manual

Tube Preamplifier  
C2300  
Owner’s Manual  
McIntosh Laboratory, Inc. 2 Chambers Street Binghamton, New York 13903-2699 Phone: 607-723-3512 FAX: 607-724-0549  
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Thank You  
Table of Contents  
Your decision to own this McIntosh C2300 Tube Preampli-  
fier ranks you at the very top among discriminating music  
listeners. You now have “The Best.” The McIntosh dedica-  
tion to “Quality,” is assurance that you will receive many  
years of musical enjoyment from this unit.  
Please take a short time to read the information in this  
manual. We want you to be as familiar as possible with all  
the features and functions of your new McIntosh.  
Safety Instructions............................................................2  
Thank You and Please Take a Moment.............................3  
Technical Assistance and Customer Service....................3  
Table of Contents ..............................................................3  
General Information .........................................................4  
Connector and Cable Information ....................................4  
Introduction.......................................................................5  
C2300 Features .................................................................5  
Dimensions .......................................................................6  
Installation ........................................................................7  
Please Take A Moment  
The serial number, purchase date and McIntosh Dealer  
name are important to you for possible insurance claim or  
future service. The spaces below have been provided for  
you to record that information:  
Connections:  
Rear Panel Connections (Separate Sheet).......8 and Mc2A  
How to Connect the C2300...............................................9  
Connection Diagrams (Separate Sheets)Mc1A, Mc1B and  
Mc2B  
Serial Number: __________________________________  
Purchase Date: __________________________________  
Dealer Name: ___________________________________  
Front Panel Features:  
Front Panel Displays, Controls, Push-buttons and Jack . 10  
Setup:  
How to Operate the Setup Mode .....................................11  
Default Settings ...............................................................11  
Firmware Version.............................................................11  
Trim Level Adjustment....................................................11  
Re-Title Inputs................................................................. 12  
Meter Illumination.......................................................... 12  
Display Brightness.......................................................... 13  
Power Control Triggers................................................... 13  
Accessory Power Control................................................ 13  
Tube LED........................................................................ 13  
Passthru........................................................................... 13  
Technical Assistance  
If at any time you have questions about your McIntosh  
product, contact your McIntosh Dealer who is familiar  
with your McIntosh equipment and any other brands that  
may be part of your system. If you or your Dealer wish  
additional help concerning a suspected problem, you can  
receive technical assistance for all McIntosh products at:  
McIntosh Laboratory, Inc.  
2 Chambers Street  
Binghamton, New York 13903  
Phone: 607-723-1545  
Fax: 607-724-0549  
Remote Control:  
Remote Control Push-buttons......................................... 14  
How to Operate by Remote Control ............................... 15  
Customer Service  
If it is determined that your McIntosh product is in need of  
repair, you can return it to your Dealer. You can also return  
it to the McIntosh Laboratory Service Department. For  
assistance on factory repair return procedure, contact the  
McIntosh Service Department at:  
Operation:  
How to Operate the C2300 ............................................. 16  
Additional Information:  
Technical Description .....................................................20  
Specifications..................................................................22  
Packing Instruction.........................................................23  
McIntosh Laboratory, Inc.  
2 Chambers Street  
Binghamton, New York 13903  
Phone: 607-723-3515  
Fax: 607-723-1917  
Copyright 2007 © by McIntosh Laboratory, Inc.  
3
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General, Connector and Cable Information  
Connector and Cable Information  
General Information  
XLR Connectors  
1. The C2300 uses Vacuum Tubes for amplifying the  
audio signal. The C2300 is designed to have only quali-  
fied Service Personnel perform any part(s) replacement  
including all the vacuum tubes.  
Below is the Pin configuration for the XLR Balanced Input  
and Output Connectors on the C2300. Refer to the dia-  
grams for connections:  
PIN 1: Shield/Ground  
PIN 2: + Output  
PIN 3: - Output  
2. For additional connection information, refer to the  
owner’s manual(s) for any component(s) connected to  
the C2300 Tube Preamplifier.  
PIN 2  
PIN 3  
PIN 1  
PIN 1  
PIN 2  
3. The Main AC Power going to the C2300 and any other  
McIntosh Component(s) should not be applied until all  
the system components are connected together. Failure  
to do so could result in malfunctioning of some or all of  
the system’s normal operations. When the C2300 and  
other McIntosh Components are in their Standby Power  
Off Mode, the Microprocessor’s Circuitry inside each  
component is active and communication is occurring  
between them.  
PIN 3  
Power Control and Trigger Connectors  
Main Output Jack  
The C2300 Power Control and  
Trigger Output Jacks send Power  
On/Off Signals when connected to  
McIntosh and other Components. An  
additional connection on the Main  
Power Control Jack is for controlling  
the illumination of the Power Output  
Meters on McIntosh Power Ampli-  
fiers. A 1/8 inch stereo mini phone  
plug is used for connection to the  
Power Control and Trigger Outputs  
on the C2300.  
Power  
Control  
Meter  
Illumination  
Control  
Ground  
4. Up to two Sensors can be wired in parallel for Remote  
Control of the C2300 from other rooms.  
Output 1 and 2, ACC  
Jacks  
5. Balanced and Unbalanced Inputs and Outputs can be  
mixed. For example, you may connect signal sources to  
Unbalanced Inputs and send signals from the Balanced  
Outputs. You can also use Balanced and Unbalanced  
Outputs simultaneously, connected to different Power  
Amplifiers.  
Power  
Control  
N/C  
Ground  
Note: The Data, Power Control and  
Trigger Connecting Cable is  
available from the McIntosh  
Parts Department:  
Trigger  
Control  
N/C  
Data, Power Control and Trig-  
ger Cable Part No. 170-202  
Six foot, shielded 2 conductor,  
Ground  
with 1/8 inch stereo mini phone plugs on each end.  
Data Port Connectors  
The C2300 Data Out Ports send Remote Control Signals to  
McIntosh Source Components. A 1/8  
Data  
Signal  
inch stereo mini phone plug is used for  
connection.  
N/C  
Data  
Ground  
4
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Introduction and C2300 Features  
Introduction  
Selections and Adjustments are also displayed. The display  
intensity is adjustable.  
The McIntosh C2300 Tube Preamplifier is one of the finest  
Tube Preamplifiers ever created. The versatile Preamplifier  
provides connections for various input sources and outputs  
to drive multiple Power Amplifiers. The C2300 reproduc-  
tion is sonically transparent and absolutely accurate. The  
McIntosh Sound is “The Sound of the Music Itself.”  
• Precision Parts  
Only the finest precision 1% tolerance resistors are used  
throughout.  
• Low Distortion  
Distortion levels of all types are less than 0.08%. Music is  
amplified with total transparency and accuracy.  
C2300 Features  
• Electromagentic Input Switching with Level Trim  
Adjustment  
Digital Logic integrated circuits drive Electromagnetic  
Switches on all Inputs and operating functions for reliable,  
noiseless, distortion free switching. All eight Inputs on  
the C2300 can be matched in level, so there are no abrupt  
changes in volume levels between the different Inputs.  
There is also a Record Monitor function for checking the  
progress of a recording.  
• Passthru Mode  
The Automatic Passthru Mode allows the C2300 to be-  
come part of a Multichannel Sound System for DVD-Au-  
dio, SACD and Home Theater Movies.  
• Output Switching  
Front panel Output Push-buttons control two Switched  
Outputs that allow sending signals to two separate Power  
Amplifiers.  
• Moving Coil and Moving Magnet Phono Inputs  
The C2300 contains two different precision Phono Pre-  
amplifier Circuits. One for low output Moving Coil Phono  
Cartridges with selectable resistance loading, the other is  
for Moving Magnet Cartridges with selectable capacitive  
loading. Both circuits use the latest designs to provide the  
lowest possible noise and distortion. The RIAA Correction  
Equalization Circuitry utilizies close tolerance resistors  
and capacitors for an extremely flat frequency response.  
• Remote Control with External Sensor Input  
The Remote Control provides control of the C2300 op-  
erating functions and any McIntosh Source Components  
connected to it. Enjoy your McIntosh System from other  
rooms in your home by connecting external sensors.  
• Power Control Output and Trigger Assignment  
A Power Control connection for convenient Turn-On of  
McIntosh Power Amplifiers, Source Components and  
Accessories is included. Two of the Power Control Ouputs  
may be assigned to activate when a given Input is selected.  
• Balanced Inputs  
The Balanced Inputs allow the connection of a source  
component using long cable lengths without a loss in sound  
quality.  
• Special Power Supply  
Fully regulated Power Supplies and a special R-Core Power  
Transformer ensure stable noise free operation even though  
the power line varies.  
• Precision Tracking Volume Control  
Volume levels are controlled by a new Multi-Stage Preci-  
sion Digitally Controlled Attenuator System with a track-  
ing accuracy of 0.1dB.  
• Extruded Side Panels  
The sides of the VP1000 are extruded aluminum panels  
with a bead blast textured surface and a black anodized  
finish.  
• Variable Rate Volume and Balance Control Selection  
The C2300 Tube Preamplifier’s Volume and Balance Con-  
trol Circuitry provides an ideal rate of change with control  
rotation.  
• Fiber Optic Solid State Front Panel Illumination  
The even Illumination of the Front Panel is accomplished  
by the combination of custom designed Fiber Optic Light  
Diffusers and extra long life Light Emitting Diodes  
(LEDs). The glass Front Panel ensures the pristine beauty  
of the C2300 will be retained for many years.  
• Assignable Tone Controls with Bypass  
The C2300 remembers the Bass and Treble Control Set-  
tings or the Tone Circuitry Bypass Option for each input.  
• Alphanumeric Fluorescent Display  
The Multifunction Front Panel Display indicates the  
Source Selection, Volume and Balance Levels. Setup Mode  
5
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Dimensions  
Dimensions  
The following dimensions can assist in determining the  
best location for your C2300. There is additional informa-  
tion on the next page pertaining to installing the C2300  
into cabinets.  
17-1/2"  
44.45cm  
Front View of the C2300  
7 -5/8"  
19.37cm  
7 -1/8"  
18.10cm  
17-1/8"  
43.50cm  
Rear View of the C2300  
6-3/8"  
16.19cm  
13 -1/4"  
33.66cm  
16-1/2"  
41.91cm  
14-1/2"  
36.83cm  
Side View of the C2300  
6-9/16"  
16.67cm  
3/16"  
0.48cm  
13/16"  
2.06cm  
2"  
5.08cm  
10-9/16"  
26.83cm  
6
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Installation  
Installation  
The C2300 can be placed upright on a table or shelf, stand- on each side of the Tube Preamplifier, so that airflow is not  
ing on its four feet. It also can be custom installed in a  
piece of furniture or cabinet of your choice. The four feet  
may be removed from the bottom of the C2300 when it is  
custom installed as outlined below. The four feet together  
with the mounting screws should be retained for possible  
future use if the C2300 is removed from the custom instal-  
lation and used free standing. The required panel cutout,  
ventilation cutout and unit dimensions are shown.  
Always provide  
obstructed. Allow 19-1/2 inches (49.53cm) depth behind  
the front panel. Allow 1-1/8 inch (2.9cm) in front of the  
mounting panel for knob clearance. Be sure to cut out a  
ventilation hole in the mounting shelf according to the  
dimensions in the drawing.  
17-3/16"  
43.66cm  
adequate ventila-  
tion for your C2300.  
Cool operation  
ensures the longest  
possible operating  
life for any electron-  
ic instrument. Do  
C2300 Front Panel  
Custom Cabinet Cutout  
6-9/16"  
16.67cm  
not install the C2300  
directly above a heat  
generating compo-  
nent such as a high  
powered amplifier.  
If all the compo-  
nents are installed  
in a single cabinet,  
a quiet running  
ventilation fan can  
6"  
15.24cm  
Cutout Opening for Custom Mounting  
Cabinet  
Front  
Panel  
Opening  
for Ventilation  
be a definite asset  
in maintaining all  
the system compo-  
C2300 Side View  
nents at the coolest  
possible operating  
temperature.  
in Custom Cabinet  
Cutout Opening for Ventilation  
A custom cabinet  
installation should  
provide the follow-  
ing minimum spac-  
ing dimensions for  
cool operation.  
Support  
Shelf  
Chassis  
Spacers  
4"  
10.16cm  
7-1/2"  
19.05cm  
Allow at least 6  
C2300 Bottom View  
in Custom Cabinet  
15"  
15"  
inches (15.24cm)  
above the top, 2  
inches (5.08cm)  
below the bottom  
and 1 inch (2.54cm)  
Cutout  
Opening  
for  
38.1cm  
38.10cm  
Ventilation  
1-1/16"  
2.70cm  
12-5/16"  
31.27cm  
Note: Center the cutout Horizontally  
on the unit. For purposes of  
clarity, the above illustration  
is not drawn to scale.  
7
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Rear Panel Connections  
Rear Panel Connections  
The identification of Rear Panel Connections for the  
C2300 Tube Preamplifier is located on a separate folded  
sheet contained in the Owner’s Manual Packet.  
Refer to separate sheet “Mc2A” for the Rear Panel Connec-  
tions.  
C2300 Tube Preamplifer Rear Panel  
8
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How to Connect the C2300  
How to Connect the C2300  
The C2300 has the ability to automatically switch power  
On/Off to McIntosh Source Components via the Power  
Control connections. The Data Port Connections allow for  
the remote operation of basic functions using the C2300  
Remote Control. With an external sensor connected to the  
C2300, remote control operation of the system is possible  
from another room and/or when the C2300 is located in a  
cabinet with the doors closed.  
PORT Jack to the McIntosh D/A Converter Data In  
jack.  
12. Connect any additional McIntosh Components in a  
similar manner, as outlined in steps 8 thru 11.  
Sensor Connections:  
13. Connect a RG59U or RG6U Cable from the C2300  
EXT SENSOR “F” Connector to the McIntosh Sensor  
“F” Connector.  
The connection instructions below, together with the  
C2300 Input and Output Connection Diagrams located on  
the separate folded sheets “Mc1A/1B and Mc2A/2B”, is  
an example of a typical audio system. Your system may  
vary from this, however the actual components would be  
connected in a similar manner. For additional information  
refer to “Connector and Cable Information” on page 4.  
Power Control Connections:  
1. Connect a Control Cable from the C2300 POWER  
CONTROL ACC(C) Jack to the Power Control In on  
the McIntosh SACD/CD Player.  
2. Connect a Control Cable from the McIntosh SACD/CD  
Player Power Control Out jack to the McIntosh D/A  
Converter Power Control In Jack.  
3. Connect a Control Cable from the McIntosh D/A Con-  
verter Power Control Out jack to the McIntosh Tuner  
Power Control In Jack.  
4. Connect a Control Cable from the McIntosh Tuner  
Power Control Out jack to the McIntosh Music Server  
Power Control In Jack.  
5. Connect a Control Cable from the C2300 POWER  
CONTROL MAIN Out jack to the McIntosh Power  
Amplifier Left Channel Power Control In Jack. Con-  
nect a Control Cable from the Left Channel Power Am-  
plifier Power Control Out to the Right Channel Power  
Amplifier Power Control In Jack.  
6. Optionally connect a Control Cable from the C2300  
POWER CONTROL OUTPUT 1 jack to the McIntosh  
Power Amplifier (Secondary Room) Power Control In  
Jack.  
Audio Connections:  
14. Connect an Audio Cable from the C2300 TUNER  
INPUT Jacks to the McIntosh TUNER1 Fixed Output  
Jacks.  
15. Connect Balanced Cables from the C2300 CD INPUT  
Jacks to the McIntosh SACD/CD Player Fixed Bal-  
anced Output Jacks.  
Note: Unbalanced Audio Cables may be used instead of  
the Balanced Cables, but not both.  
16. Connect an Audio Cable from the C2300 SRVR IN-  
PUT Jacks to the McIntosh Music Server Output Jacks.  
17. Connect an Audio Cable from the C2300 SRVR OUT-  
PUT Jacks to the McIntosh Music Server Input 1 Jacks.  
18. Connect an Balanced Cables from the C2300 D/A  
OUTPUT Jacks to the McIntosh D/A Converter output  
Jacks.  
19. Connect the Audio Cables coming from the Turntable  
to the C2300 MC PHONO INPUT Jacks.  
Note: If the Turntable has a Moving Magnet Cartridge  
connect the audio cables to the C2300 MM PHONO  
INPUT instead of the MC Input.  
20. Connect Balanced Cables from the C2300 MAIN  
OUTPUT jacks to the McIntosh Power Amplifiers  
(Main Left and Right) Input jacks.  
21. Connect an Audio Cable from the C2300 OUTPUT 1  
jacks to the McIntosh Power Amplifier (Secondary)  
Input jacks.  
22. Connect any additional McIntosh Components in a  
similar manner, as outlined in steps 14 thru 21.  
Optional “PassThru” Connections:  
23. Connect Audio Cables or Balanced Cables from the  
McIntosh MX Series A/V Control Center Front Left  
and Right Channel Outputs to the CDR Input Jacks.  
24. Connect a Control Cable from the C2300 PASSTHRU  
to McIntosh MX Series A/V Control Center Zone A  
Power Control Output.  
7. Connect any additional McIntosh Components in a  
similar manner, as outlined in steps 1 thru 4.  
Data Control Connections:  
8. Connect a Control Cable from the C2300 TUNER  
DATA PORTS Jack to the McIntosh TUNER1 Data In  
Jack.  
9. Connect a Control Cable from the C2300 CD DATA  
PORT Jack to the McIntosh SACD/CD Player Data In  
jack.  
10. Connect a Control Cable from the C2300 SRVR DATA  
PORT Jack to the McIntosh Music Server Data In jack.  
11. Connect a Control Cable from the C2300 D/A DATA  
Ground Connections:  
25. Connect the Gound Cable coming from the Turntable  
to the C2300 GND Binding Post.  
AC Power Cords Connections:  
26. Connect the C2300 and any remaining components’  
AC Power Cords to a live AC outlet as illustrated.  
9
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Front Panel Displays, Controls, Push-buttons and Jack  
INPUT Control selects  
the desired audio signals  
for listening and record-  
ing. It is also used in the  
setup mode for various  
functions  
IR Sensor receives  
commands from a  
Remote Control  
DISPLAY indicates the  
Sources, Volume, other  
Audio Settings, Opera-  
tional Functions and  
Setup Mode Settings  
METER indicates the  
Preamplifier’s Right  
Channel relative Output  
Level  
METER indicates  
TRIM SELECT  
TRIM ADJUST  
allows adjustment  
of various types  
audio settings. It  
is also used in the  
setup mode for  
VOLUME Control ad-  
justs the listening level  
for both channels  
the Preamplifier’s  
Left Channel relative  
Output Level  
allows selection  
of various types  
of audio settings.  
It is also used in  
the setup mode for  
various functions  
various functions  
Connection for low  
MONO with  
indicator,  
SETUP Mode Push-  
OUTPUTS 1 and 2 Push-  
buttons with indicators,  
allow the C2300 to switch  
Power Control and Audio  
to two separate Stereo  
Power Amplifiers  
impedance dy-  
namic headphones  
with 1/4” (0.64cm)  
stereo phone type  
plug, for private  
listening  
button with indicator,  
allows the changing  
of the default settings  
for Inputs, Levels,  
Special Functions  
and the Display  
combines the  
Left and Right  
Channel signals  
for Monophonic  
Sound  
TONE BYPASS with  
indicator, when activated  
the audio signal bypass-  
es the Tone Controls  
REC MONITOR Push-but-  
ton with indicator, allows  
listening to the playback of  
REC/SRVR Source while  
the recording is in process  
MUTE Push-but-  
STANDBY/ON  
Push-button switch-  
es the C2300 ON or  
OFF (Standby) and  
resets the micropro-  
cessors  
ton with indicator,  
activates different  
Muting Modes  
10  
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Setup  
How to Operate the Setup Modes  
Default Settings  
Your McIntosh C2300 has been factory configured for  
default operating settings that will allow immediate enjoy-  
ment of superb audio without the need for further adjust-  
ments. If you wish to make changes to the factory default  
settings, a Setup Feature is provided to customize the oper-  
ating settings using the Front Panel Alphanumeric Display.  
Refer to the C2300 Front Panel Illustration on the previous  
page while performing the following steps.  
The Default Settings Chart below indicates the Function  
Name, default Setting and the page number for additional  
information.  
Default Settings  
Function Name  
C2300  
Setting  
V_._ _  
Page No.  
11  
11  
12  
12  
13  
13  
13  
13  
13  
TRIM  
TUNer 0.0  
3 TUN  
ON  
Note: If the C2300 is currently, On proceed to step 2.  
INPUT  
1. Press the STANDBY/ON Push-button to switch On the  
C2300. The title TUBE WARMUP will appear on the  
Front Panel Alphanumeric Display. Refer to figure 1.  
METER  
DISPLAY  
TRIGger  
7
TUNER> - -  
MAIN  
ON  
ACCessory <C>  
TUBE LED  
PASSTHRU  
Figure 1  
OFF  
Note: The Red LED above the STANDBY/ON Push-but-  
ton lights to indicates the C2300 is connected to AC  
Power.  
Firmware Version  
2. Press the C2300 Front Panel SETUP Push-button. The  
LED above the SETUP Push-button will illuminate  
and the Front Panel Display will indicate C2300 V1.00  
or higher. Refer to figure 2.  
The C2300 functionality is controlled by internal software  
that is know as Firmware. The Version of the Firmware  
in the C2300 can be identified at any time by utilizing the  
Setup Mode.  
1. Press the SETUP Push-button to access the Setup  
Mode.  
2. Rotate the MENU (INPUT) Control until C2300 V1.00  
or higher appears. Refer to figure 2.  
3. The number after the character “V” is the Firmware  
number.  
4. Press the SETUP Push-button to exit the Setup Mode.  
Figure 2  
Note: The Front Panel Display will indicate C2300  
V1.00 or higher the first time, after that it will dis-  
play whatever Setup Mode was last accessed.  
3. Rotate the MENU (INPUT) Control and notice the  
Setup Mode goes forwards through eight different  
possible adjustment selections and one informational  
display.  
Trim Level Adjustment  
4. To exit from a specific Setup Mode, press the SETUP  
Push-button a second time. The LED above the SET-  
UP Push-button will extinguish and the Front Panel  
Display will revert back to its normal display. Refer to  
figure 3.  
Source Components can have slightly different volume  
levels resulting in the need to readjust the C2300 Volume  
Control when switching between different sources. The  
C2300 allows the adjustment of levels for each of the  
Source Inputs for the same relative volume. The Tuner and  
CD Inputs are used in the following example.  
Note: The range of adjustment is ± 6dB. The Tape/Record  
Output Levels are unaffected by any changes in the  
Level Trim Settings. The Trim adjustments made are  
retained in permanent memory. They can be changed  
by performing a new Trim Procedure. The Tuner Input  
Volume Level can serve as a reference or choose an-  
other source frequently listened to. The reference Input  
Source should be set to a Trim Level of 00.  
Figure 3  
1. Rotate the INPUT Control to select the Tuner Input  
and adjust the VOLUME Control to the desired listen-  
ing level.  
11  
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Re-Title Inputs  
2. Press the SETUP Push-button to access the Setup  
Mode.  
3. Rotate the MENU (INPUT) Control until “TRIM  
TUN 0.0” appears on the Front Panel Alphanumeric  
Display. Refer to figure 4.  
The C2300 provides the ability to change the default Input  
Titles to match the components in your system. In the  
following example the CDR Input will be renamed and ap-  
pear as AUX on the Front Panel Alphanumeric Display.  
Notes: 1. One of the high level Inputs may be renamed to AUX  
or swiched Off. If any input is switched Off its name  
will no longer appear on the Front Panel Alphanu-  
meric Display when using the INPUT Control, nor is  
it accessible with the Remote Control.  
Figure 4  
2. When a high level input is switched Off its name will  
become available to the remaining high level inputs.  
3. The Phono MC and Phono MM Inputs are designed  
for connection of a turntable only and thus the title  
is not changeable. However, the Phono Input may be  
switched Off.  
Note: If necessary, rotate the SELECT 1 (TRIM SELECT)  
Control for “TUN” and rotate the SELECT 2  
(TRIM ADJUST) for ”0.0”.  
4. Rotate the SELECT 1 Control or use the Remote Con-  
trol ◄INPUT► push-button until the display indi-  
cates “TRIM CD 0.0”.  
5. Rotate the SELECT 2 Control or use the Remote  
Control LEVEL or Push-buttons until Listening  
Volume Level of the CD Input is the same as the Tuner  
Volume Level. The figure 5 illustration indicates a  
-2.5dB decrease in the CD Level.  
1. Press the SETUP Push-button to access the Setup  
Mode.  
2. Rotate the MENU Control until “INPUT 3 TUN”  
appears on the Front Panel Alphanumeric Display.  
3. Rotate the SELECT 1 Control until “INPUT 7  
CDR” appears on the Front Panel Alphanumeric Dis-  
play. Refer to figure 6.  
Figure 5  
Figure 6  
6. Rotate the SELECT 1 Control until the name of the  
next Input to be adjusted is displayed.  
3. Rotate the SELECT 2 Control until the Front Panel  
Alphanumeric Display indicates “INPUT 7 AUX”.  
Refer to figure 7.  
7. Repeat steps 5 and 6 until all the Inputs with sources  
connected to the C2300 have the same relative volume  
levels when switching between them. Record any  
changes made to the various inputs from the default  
settings in the “Input Source Settings” chart below.  
8. Press the SETUP Push-button to exit the Setup Mode.  
Figure 7  
4. Press the SETUP Push-button to exit the Setup Mode.  
Input Source Settings  
Default Title  
TUNER  
DVD  
New Title  
Trim  
Trigger  
Meter Illumination On/Off  
The Front Panel Meter Illumination may be switched On or  
Off. Follow the steps below to switch the Meter Illumina-  
tion Off.  
1. Press the SETUP Push-button to access the Setup  
Mode.  
2. Rotate the MENU Control until the words METER  
ON appears.  
3. Rotate the SELECT 2 Control until the Front Panel  
Alphanumeric Display indicates “METER OFF”.  
4. Press the SETUP Push-button to exit the Setup Mode.  
D/A  
CD  
CDR  
SERVER  
MC PHONO  
MM PHONO  
12  
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Setup, con’t  
Display Brightness  
The Front Panel Alphanumeric DISPLAY Brightness may  
be varied from a setting of 1 (Dim) to 7 (Bright). Follow  
the steps below for reducing the Display Brightness.  
1. Press the SETUP Push-button to access the Setup  
Mode.  
Figure 10  
cates ACC< C > ON”. Refer to figure 10.  
Tube LED  
2. Rotate the MENU Control until the word DISPLAY 7  
appears.  
3. Rotate the SELECT 2 Control until the Front Panel  
Alphanumeric Display indicates “Display 3”.  
4. Press the SETUP Push-button to exit the Setup Mode.  
To swich Off the Tube LED green illumination perform the  
following:  
1. Press the SETUP Push-button to access the Setup  
Mode.  
2. Rotate the MENU Control until “TUBE LED ON” ap-  
pears on the Front Panel Alphanumeric Display.  
3. Rotate the SELECT 2 Control until the display indi-  
cates “TUBE LED OFF”.  
Power Control Triggers  
The OUTPUT 1(A) and OUTPUT 2(B) Power Control  
Outputs are reassignable to activate only when a given  
Input is selected. In the following example, the Power Con-  
trol OUTPUT 1(A) Jack will be set to function as TRIG-  
GER A for the DVD Input.  
4. Press the SETUP Push-button to exit the Setup Mode.  
Passthru  
1. Press the SETUP Push-button to access the Setup  
Mode.  
2. Rotate the MENU Control until “TRIG TUNER >  
- - ” appears on the Front Panel Alphanumeric Display.  
Refer to figure 8.  
The C2300 can be part of a Multichannel Sound System  
for SACD, DVD-Audio and Home Theater. The Right and  
Left Front Channels from a McIntosh A/V Control Center  
or Surround Decoder can “Passthru” the C2300 and onto  
its associated Power Amplifier(s). The Setup Mode allows  
the activation of the Passthru Mode and the Selection of  
the C2300 Input (Input numbers 3 - 8 on the Rear Panel)  
that will be used for the Right and Left Front Channels. In  
the example below, the Right and Left Front Channels from  
the Multichannel Processor/Decoder will be connected to  
the CDR (7) Input Jacks on the C2300. Refer to page 9 for  
additional connection information.  
Figure 8  
3. Rotate the SELECT 1 Control until the display indi-  
cates “TRIG DVD > - - ”.  
4. Rotate the SELECT 2 Control until the display indi-  
cates “TRIG DVD > A ”. Refer to figure 9.  
1. Press the SETUP Push-button to access the Setup  
Mode.  
2. Rotate the MENU Control until “PASSTHRU OFF”  
appears on the Front Panel Alphanumeric Display.  
3. Rotate the SELECT 2 Control until the display indi-  
cates “PASSTHRU 7 ”. Refer to figure 11.  
Figure 9  
5. Press the SETUP Push-button to exit the Setup Mode.  
Accessory Power Control  
Figure 11  
The ACC (C) Power Control Output is reassignable from  
the default setting of going ON/OFF with the C2300  
(Main), to being controlled by the Remote Control ACC  
ON/OFF Push-buttons. To reassign it perform the follow-  
ing:  
4. Press the SETUP Push-button to exit the Setup Mode.  
1. Press the SETUP Push-button to access the Setup  
Mode.  
2. Rotate the MENU Control until ACC < C > MAIN”  
appears on the Front Panel Alphanumeric Display.  
3. Rotate the SELECT 2 Control until the display indi-  
13  
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Remote Control Push-Buttons  
Press to Power the  
C2300 ON or OFF  
Press MODE to switch between  
Stereo and Mono Modes  
LED illuminates during the time a  
remote command is sent to the C2300  
Turns AC Power ON or OFF to  
certain McIntosh Components when  
connected via the Data Port  
Press to Power ON  
the C2300  
Press to Power OFF  
the C2300  
Selects Functions for McIntosh  
Home Controller and as a “shift”  
key when used with the AM or FM  
push-buttons to select Output (Spkr)  
1 or 2  
Selects Output 2, FM Tuner Operat-  
ing Functions and Track Selection  
on certain McIntosh CD Players  
Switches OFF the  
entire C2300 System  
Use to select tuner presets, disc  
tracks or any numbered operation  
Press to REVIEW Tuner Station  
Presets and select certain functions  
on a variety of McIntosh Compo-  
nents  
Selects Output 1, AM Tuner Operat-  
ing Functions and Disc Selection on  
certain McIntosh Disc Players  
Press TRIM and then the LEVEL  
Push-buttons to select and adjust  
various functions  
Adjusts the volume level up or down  
Selects On Screen Functions on a  
variety of McIntosh Components  
Mutes the audio  
Selects a Disc Player, Music Server  
or Tape Recorder Function and also  
performs various functions on a  
variety of McIntosh Components  
Selects the FF (Fast Forward) or  
REWind Mode on Disc Player,  
Music Server or Tape Recorder;  
tunes Up or Down the AM/FM  
Dial  
Selects one of the nine  
available Audio Sources  
Scrolls through the available  
C2300 Inputs  
Press to listen to the  
selected Record Out  
Signal  
Note: Push-buttons whose function is not identified above  
are for use with other McIntosh Products.  
14  
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How to use the Remote Control  
How to use the Remote Control  
Pause  
The supplied Remote Control is capable of directly con-  
trolling the functions of contemporary McIntosh Source  
Components connected to the C2300 Tube Preamplifier.  
Press Pause Pushbutton to perform various functions  
on a variety of McIntosh Components. It will also pause  
the playing of a disc or tape player. The Pause Push-but-  
ton will also allow for quick exiting from the active menu  
when in the setup mode. The Pause Push-button is also  
used as an Enter Push-button with some McIntosh compo-  
nents.  
Input Source Selection  
Press the appropriate Source Push-button to select the  
desired program source. Sources may also be selected by  
pressing the ◄INPUT► push-button.  
Trim  
Mute  
Press the TRIM Push-button until the word “BALANCE  
__” appears on the Alphanumeric display, then press the  
LEVEL UpPush-button to emphasize the Left Channel  
or DownPush-button to emphasize the Right Channel.  
Press the TRIM Push-button until the word “TRIM _  
_ _ _ _” appears on the Alphanumeric display, then press  
the LEVEL Upor DownPush-button to match the  
volume level of the previously selected Input.  
Note: For additional information on the other Trim Fuctions  
refer to pages 16, 17 and 18.  
Press the MUTE Push-button to mute audio. The Record  
Signals present at the SRVR REC OUTPUT Jacks are not  
affected by the MUTE function. The C2300 Front Panel  
Alphanumeric Display will indicate the word MUTE.  
Note: For additional information on the various Mute Modes  
refer to page 18.  
Mode  
Press the MODE Push-button to switch from Stereo to  
Mono for Monophonic listening.  
Acc On  
Disc, Server and Tape Functions  
Press ACC ON to turn the power ON to a McIntosh Disc  
Player.  
Use these push-buttons to operate a DVD Player, CD  
Player, CD Changer, Music Server or Tape Recorder.  
Acc Off  
Numbered Push-buttons  
Press ACC OFF to turn the power OFF to a McIntosh Disc  
Player.  
Press Push-buttons 0 through 9 to access tuner station pre-  
sets, tracks on discs or selections on a Music Server.  
Amplifier Selection  
Disc and Track  
Press the 2nd Push-button followed by the OUTPUT 1  
or 2 Push-buttons either separately or together, to control  
the rear panel OUTPUTS 1, 2 which can feed signals to a  
Power Amplifier or other accessory component.  
Use the DISC and TRACK Push-buttons when a Disc  
Player or Music Server is being used.  
Tuner Push-buttons  
Press the AM or FM Push-button to select the desired  
broadcast band. Press and release the CHANnel Upor  
DownPush-button to move from station to station. Press  
and hold a CHANnel Upor DownPush-button to  
move continuously from station to station. Press the +10  
Push-button to start the automatic brief audition of each of  
the presets stored in the tuner memory. Press +10 Push-  
button a second time to stop on a station preset.  
Volume  
Press the Upor DownVOLUME Push-button to raise  
or lower the listening volume level.  
Note: The Record Signals present at SRVR OUTPUTS are not  
affected by volume changes.  
15  
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How to Operate the C2300  
Power On  
Meter Illumination setting of On or Off which is the same  
for all inputs.  
The Red LED above the STANDBY/ON Push-button lights  
to indicate the C2300 is connected to AC Power. To Switch  
ON the C2300, press the STANDBY/ON Push-button on  
the Front Panel or the PWR (Power) Push-button on the  
Remote Control. The title TUBE WARMUP will appear  
on the Front Panel Alphanumeric Display after Turn-On,  
with the Audio Outputs muted. Refer to figures 12, 13, 14  
and 21.  
BALANCE  
Listening balance varies with different program sources,  
room acoustics and listening positions relative to the  
Loudspeakers. Use the Balance (Trim Function) as needed  
to achieve approximately equal listening volume levels in  
each Loudspeaker. To adjust the Balance perform the fol-  
lowing:  
Source Selection  
1. Rotate the Front Panel TRIM SELECT Control or press  
the TRIM Push-button on the Remote Control until  
“BALANCE 00” appears on the Front Panel Alphanu-  
meric Display.  
Figure 12  
2. Rotate the TRIM ADJUST Control or press the LEVEL  
+ / - Push-buttons to emphasize the Left Channel or the  
Right Channel. Refer to figure 15.  
Figure 13  
Select the desired source using the INPUT Control or  
Remote Control.  
Figure 15  
Volume Control  
The Front Panel Display indicates the Balance changes  
in steps from 0 to 107. After approximately 3 seconds the  
Alphanumeric Display returns to indicate the Source Se-  
lection and Volume Level. When the Balance is set to favor  
either left or right channel, the volume number indicated  
will have a “< or >” symbol on either side of the number.  
Refer to figure 16. To verify the Balance setting without  
Rotate the Front Panel VOLUME Control or use the  
VOLUME + (Up) or - (Down) Push-buttons on the Remote  
Control for the desired listening level.  
Trim Functions  
The C2300 has six different Trim Selections with Adjust-  
ments. The Trim Selections include Balance, Bass, Treble,  
Tone Bypass, Input Level Matching and Meter Illumina-  
tion. The Trim Settings are stored in memory independent-  
ly for each Input Source Selected, the only exception being  
Figure 16  
Figure 14  
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How to Operate the C2300  
changing it, use the TRIM SELECT Control or TRIM  
Push-button and select Balance.  
activate Tone Bypass perform the following:  
1. Rotate the Front Panel TRIM SELECT Control or press  
the TRIM Push-button on the Remote Control until  
“TONE BYPASS” appears on the Front Panel Alpha-  
numeric Display.  
2. Rotate the TRIM ADJUST Control or press the LEVEL  
+ / - Push-buttons to activate the Tone Bypass or deac-  
tivate the Tone Bypass. Refer to figure 19.  
BASS  
The Intensity of the Low Frequencies in the music can be  
increased or decreased by using the Trim Select and Trim  
Adjust Controls. To make adjustment perform the follow-  
ing:  
1. Rotate the Front Panel TRIM SELECT Control or press  
the TRIM Push-button on the Remote Control until  
“BASS __” appears on the Front Panel Alphanumeric  
Display.  
Figure 19  
2. Rotate the TRIM ADJUST Control or press the LEVEL After approximately 3 seconds the  
+ / - Push-buttons to increase or decrease the volumne  
level of the low frequencies. Refer to figure 17.  
Alphanumeric Display returns to  
indicate the Source Selection and  
Volume Level.  
TRIM LEVEL  
Figure 17  
The Trim Level adjustments al-  
lows for making fine adjustments  
to the previously performed Trim  
Level Adjustments in the Setup  
Section of this Owner’s Manual on  
page 11. To make fine adjustment  
to the currently selected Input  
Source perform the following:  
1. Rotate the TRIM SELECT  
Control or press the TRIM  
Push-button on the Remote  
Control until “LEVEL _._”  
appears on the Front Panel  
Alphanumeric Display. Refer  
to figure 20.  
The Front Panel Display indicates the Bass changes in  
steps from -12dB to (+)12dB. After approximately 3  
seconds the Alphanumeric Display returns to indicate the  
Source Selection and Volume Level.  
TREBLE  
The Intensity of the High Frequencies in the music can be  
increased or decreased by using the Trim Select and Trim  
Adjust Controls. To make adjustment perform the follow-  
ing:  
1. Rotate the Front Panel TRIM SELECT Control or press  
the TRIM Push-button on the Remote Control until  
“TREBLE __” appears on the Front Panel Alphanu-  
meric Display.  
2. Rotate the TRIM ADJUST Control or press the LEVEL  
+ / - Push-buttons to increase or decrease the volume  
level of the high frequencies. Refer to figure 18.  
2. Rotate the TRIM ADJUST  
Control or press the LEVEL  
+ / - Push-buttons to adjust  
the volume level from -6dB to  
(+)6dB. Refer to figure 20.  
After approximately 3 seconds the  
Alphanumeric Display returns to  
the indicate the Source Selection  
and Volume Level.  
Figure 18  
The Front Panel Display indicates the Bass changes in  
steps from -12dB to (+)12dB. After approximately 3 sec-  
onds the Alphanumeric Display returns to the indicate the  
Source Selection and Volume Level.  
Figure 21  
TONE ENABLE/BYPASS  
Figure 20  
With the Tone Bypass active, the Bass and Treble Settings  
for the currently selected Input Source are electronicaly  
bypassed. When the Tone Bypass is switched Off the  
previous settings for Bass and Treble will be restored. To  
17  
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How to Operate the C2300, con’t  
METER ILLUMINATION  
the AUTOTONE circuit is set to the On position in Setup  
Mode, the C2300 will remember for each input whether the  
Tone Bypass is active. The Front Panel LED will illumi-  
nate indicating the BYPASS Mode is active.  
The C2300 Front Panel Meter Illumination may be  
switched On or Off by performing the following:  
1. Rotate the TRIM SELECT Control or press the TRIM  
Push-button on the Remote Control until “METER  
ON” appears on the Front Panel Alphanumeric Display. Mono  
2. Rotate the TRIM ADJUST Control or press the LEV-  
EL + / - Push-buttons to switch On or Off the Meter  
Illumination.  
After approximately 3 seconds the Alphanumeric Display  
returns to the indicate the Source Selection and Volume  
Level.  
Press the Front Panel MONO Push-button or the MODE  
Push-button on the Remote Control to combine left and  
right stereo signals to a Monophonic Signal. The Front  
Panel LED will illuminate indicating the MONO Mode is  
active. The C2300 automatically stores into memory for  
each Input, the Selection of the Stereo or Mono Mode.  
Note: The signals at the SRVR OUT (REC) Jacks are not  
affected.  
Note: When the Main Power Control of the C2300 is connect-  
ed to a McIntosh Power Amplifier with Remote Meter  
Illumination Control the C2300 Meter Illumination  
Setting of On or Off will also affect the Power Amplifer  
Meter Illumination.  
Record Monitor  
Press the REC MONITOR Push-button to hear the SERV-  
ER Playback Signal during the recording process.  
PHONO ADJUSTMENTS  
When the Phono MC or Phono MM Input is selected an  
additional TRIM SELECT FUNCTION becomes available  
for adjustment. Perform the following steps to make the  
Phono Trim Adjustments:  
1. Select either the Phono MM or Phono MC Input using  
the INPUT Control.  
Setup  
Pressing the SETUP Push-button activates the Setup Mode  
of the C2300 and allows customizing various operating  
functions. Refer to page 11 for additional information.  
Mute  
2. Rotate the TRIM SELECT Control or press the TRIM  
Push-button on the Remote Control until “PHMM _ _  
_ PF” or “PHMC _ _ _ OHM” appears on the Front  
Panel Alphanumeric Display. Refer to figures 22 and  
Press the MUTE Push-button, on the C2300 Front Panel  
or on the Remote Control, to Mute the Audio at the OUT-  
PUTS Connectors and HEADPHONES Output Jack. The  
Front Panel Alphanumeric Display will indicate the Input  
Source Name followed by the word MUTE in place of the  
actual volume setting. Refer to figure 24.  
Figure 22  
Figure 23  
Figure 24  
Pressing the Mute Push-button a second time or adjust-  
ing the volume control (either the Front Panel or Remote  
Control) will un-mute the C2300.  
If the Front Panel MUTE Push-button is pressed for at  
least 3 seconds, the C2300 will mute the OUTPUTS con-  
nectors, yet listening with headphones will continue until  
the Mute Push-button is pressed again for 3 seconds. The  
Front Panel Alphanumeric Display will indicate the Input  
Source Name, Volume Setting and a Dot. Refer to figures  
25 and 26.  
23.  
3. Rotate the TRIM ADJUST Control or press the  
LEVEL + / - Push-buttons to select from the avail-  
able values of cartridge loading (Ohms for a Moving  
Coil Cartridge or Capacitance for a Moving Magnet  
Cartridge) that comes closest to the Cartridge Makers  
recommend value.  
After approximately 3 seconds the Alphanumeric Display  
returns to the indicate the Source Selection and Volume  
Level.  
Tone Bypass  
Figure 25  
Press the TONE BYPASS Push-button to Bypass the Tone  
Control Circuitry, providing a flat frequency response. If  
18  
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How to Operate the C2300, con’t  
Reset of Microprocessors  
In the unlikely event the controls of the C2300 stop func-  
tioning, the microprocessors can be reset by performing  
the following:  
Figure 26  
1. Press and hold in the STANDBY/ON Push-button for  
approximately five seconds and then release the push-  
button.  
2. Press the STANDBY/ON Push-button, the C2300 will  
resume normal operation.  
Output 1 and 2  
Press the Front Panel OUTPUT 1 / OUTPUT 2 Push-but-  
ton or by using the Remote Control and pressing the 2nd  
Push-button followed by the OUTPUT 1 / OUTPUT 2  
Push-button to send audio to separate Power Amplifiers  
connected to the rear panel OUTPUTS 1 or 2 Jacks. It also  
activates the POWER CONTROL OUTPUT 1 /OUTPUT  
2 Jacks on the rear panel of the C2300. To stop the Audio  
and Power Control Signals from going to the separate  
Power Amplifiers press the same Push-button(s) a second  
time.  
Note: This can be performed with the C2300 On or in the  
Standby Mode.  
Headphones Jack  
Connect a pair of dynamic headphones with a 1/4”  
(0.635cm) stereo phone type plug to the Headphones Jack  
for private listening.  
Output Meters  
The C2300’s Output Meters indicate the Output Voltage  
available at the MAIN and OUTPUT 1 & 2 Jacks to drive  
Power Amplifiers. Refer to figure 27. The Meters are cali-  
brated in dB  
(decibels) and  
respond to all  
the peaks con-  
tained in the  
musical infor-  
Figure 27  
mation. They  
indicate to an  
accuracy of at least 95% of a single cycle from a 2000Hz  
tone burst.  
The Meter Electronic Circuitry “Time Stretches” the Meter  
Drive Signal so the Meter Pointer pauses just long enough  
for the human eye to see it and is followed by a moderate  
decay rate.  
How To Make A Recording  
1. Select the Source Input Signal you wish to record.  
2. Adjust the record level using the recorder volume con-  
trol and proceed with the recording process.  
3. To listen to the playback of the program source just  
recorded, press the RECord MONITOR Push-button.  
Note: The C2300 SRVR (REC) OUTPUTS are not affected  
by the VOLUME or BALANCE controls.  
19  
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Technical Description  
The McIntosh engineering staff has created a Tube Pre-  
amplifier without compromise, using the most advanced  
McIntosh circuit design concepts. Many months of design,  
testing and measuring were required. Extensive controlled  
listening tests, the ultimate form of measuring, were made  
before the final design was accepted.  
the ability to change the input impedance from 25 ohms to  
1000 ohms in six steps to match a wide variety of Moving  
Coil Cartridges. The C2300 utilizes a double filtered pow-  
er supply design, just for the Moving Coil Preamplifier.  
The second (compensation) amplifier stage uses  
12AX7A tubes. Its input stage has been optimized for low  
noise and low distortion performance. With high open loop  
gain, negative feedback is used around the Phono Ampli-  
fier to further reduce noise, distortion and has a very wide  
dynamic range. The feedback network also provides preci-  
sion RIAA frequency compensation. The output is buff-  
ered by a unity gain amplifier for low output impedance.  
The MM Phono Amplifier uses 12AX7A tubes. Its  
input stage has been optimized for low noise and low  
distortion performance. It offers the ability to change the  
load capacitance from 50 pF to 750 pF in 50pF steps to  
match a wide variety of Moving Magnet Cartridges. With  
high open loop gain, negative feedback is used around the  
Phono Amplifier to further reduce noise, distortion and  
has a very wide dynamic range. The feedback network also  
provides precision RIAA frequency compensation. The  
output is buffered by a unity gain amplifier for low output  
impedance.  
Silent Audio Switching  
All signal switching in the C2300 is done by Electro-Mag-  
netic devices. Electro-Magnetic Switching is a proven  
technology that uses the latest in materials and manufac-  
turing methods. Each switch consists of a glass tube that  
is filled with an inert oxygen-free atmosphere and sealed  
with tiny leads protruding from either end. These leads  
extend into the tube and overlap one another with a separa-  
tion of a few thousandths of an inch. The leads are made  
from a ferrous material that is influenced by a magnetic  
field. They are first plated with gold as a base material,  
then with rhodium and finally ruthenium. Ruthenium is  
the best contact material known. Refer to figure 28.  
The glass assembly is then placed  
in the center of a multilayer coil  
of copper wire. The entire assem-  
bly is molded together in a tough  
shock absorbing material. The  
Tone Control Circuitry  
switch and coil connectors extend  
from the bottom in the form of  
printed circuit board terminals.  
A control attenuator inserts a series tuned circuit into  
either the feedback or input section of the tone amplifier.  
The level is set by a digitally controlled electronic attenu-  
ator. This provides a 12dB boost or cut in 1dB steps at the  
frequency of the tuned circuit. The Bass turn-over frequen-  
cy is 200Hz. The Treble turn-over frequency is 2kHz. The  
overall gain of the stage is 0dB when the tone is adjusted to  
flat. The TONE BYPASS switch removes all tone control  
circuits from the signal path.  
Figure 28  
When a DC voltage is applied to the coil, current flows  
and creates a magnetic field. The force of the field causes  
the leads to bend and contact one another inside the sealed  
glass tube. The inert gas eliminates corrosion of the con-  
tacts and insures a low resistance, distortion free switch.  
All inputs, outputs, and data ports are controlled by  
logic circuits in the C2300. The logic is changed by Front  
Panel Push-buttons or by a microprocessor IR decoder.  
This microprocessor IR decoder is programmed with ex-  
clusive McIntosh software. It receives data from the Front  
Panel or Sensors and provides the command signals for  
input switching, data switching, tone control and volume  
control.  
Volume Adjustments  
The most frequently operated control on a Preamplifier  
is the Volume Control. So it is no surprise that McIntosh  
has devoted a substantial amount of time in pursuit of the  
“Perfect Volume Control System”.  
Conventional Mechanical Controls have poor tracking  
especially when it comes to maintaining channel balance  
and after a period of time they tend to introduce noise into  
the audio signal, as they are rotated. The one desirable  
thing they have is the rate of change in volume for degrees  
of rotation, known as the audio taper. Using Electronic  
Circuitry for controlling the volume can be designed to be  
free from noise and maintain channel balance, however  
the audio taper produced by the typical Electronic Volume  
Phono Circuitry  
McIntosh has long been known for its expertise in low  
noise discrete amplifier circuits. The MC Amplifier con-  
sists of two stages, which together have a gain of 60dB at  
1000Hz. The first stage (pre-preamplifier) is a new design  
Moving Coil Preamplifier using special ultra low noise cir-  
cuitry with out the need for a step-up transformer. It offers  
20  
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Technical Description  
Control Circuit is unacceptable for use in the C2300, as  
it does not match the classic McIntosh Volume Control  
Audio Taper. The C2300 incorporates electronic circuitry  
together with sophisticated firmware to produce electroni-  
cally the classic McIntosh Volume Control Audio Taper,  
while maintaining the channel balance and freedom from  
control noise.  
The Volume Control on the Front Panel of the C2300 is  
actually a special digital optical encoder. As the Volume  
Control is rotated, a beam of Infra Red Light is picked up  
by two internal sensors as a series of digital pulses. Refer  
ing Circuitry there is lower background noise however,  
a reduction in dynamic range and input overload is the  
result. The only correct way to design a high performance  
Preamplifier is with two volume controls. This provides  
the benefits of wide dynamic range, freedom from Input  
overload and a background noise level that actually goes  
down as the volume control setting is reduced. The special  
controlling circuitry for this dual volume control design is  
known as the McIntosh “Dynamic Control Multiplexer”.  
Meter and Circuitry  
to the exploded view in figure  
McIntosh solved the problems with ordinary meters in  
the C2300. By developing electronic circuits the meters  
are made to respond to short intervals with an accuracy  
of 95%! To permit the eye to see such high speed motion,  
the electronic circuits that drive the meter pointer are time  
stretched. Special logarithmic circuitry allows the meter  
to indicate a 60dB plus range, without resorting to a Meter  
Range Switch.  
Optical Disc  
29. The number of and time  
Infrared  
between pulses are counted by  
LED  
a Microprocessor which in turn  
controls the McIntosh designed  
Precision Electronic Attenua-  
tor that provides 213 steps in  
0.5dB increments and maintains  
the channel balance to within +  
Sensors  
Figure 29  
0.1dB.  
Power Supply Circuits  
With most Preamplifiers the Volume Control is placed  
ahead of the Amplifying Circuitry providing large dynam-  
ic range and freedom from input overload however, back-  
ground noise level is higher at lower settings of the volume  
control. By placing the Volume Control after the Amplify-  
To compliment the design of the C2300 there are fully  
regulated power supplies. The special “R” core transform-  
ers supplies the necessary voltage/current for the low and  
high voltage regulated circuitry.  
C2300 Block Diagram  
21  
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Specifications  
Specifications  
Frequency Response  
Output Impedance  
+0, -0.5dB from 20Hz to 20,000Hz  
+0, -1dB from 10Hz to 100,000Hz  
220 ohms  
Headphone Load Impedance  
Total Harmonic Distortion  
16 ohms to 250 ohms  
0.08% from 20Hz to 20,000Hz  
Tube Compliment  
Rated Output (Main)  
2.5V Unbalanced, 5V Balanced  
MM Phono Circuitry: 2 - 12AX7A  
MC Phono Circuitry: 2 - 12AX7A  
High Level Circuitry: 2 - 12AX7A  
Maximum Voltage Output  
8V RMS Unbalanced, 16V RMS Balanced  
Power Requirements  
100 Volts, 50/60Hz at 75 watts  
110 Volts, 50/60Hz at 75 watts  
120 Volts, 50/60Hz at 75 watts  
220 Volts, 50/60Hz at 75 watts  
230 Volts, 50/60Hz at 75 watts  
240 Volts, 50/60Hz at 75 watts  
Standby Power, less than 2 watts  
Sensitivity (for rated output)  
High Level, 450mV unbalanced, 900mV balanced  
Phono MM, 4.5mV  
Phono MC, 0.45mV  
Signal To Noise Ratio (A-Weighted)  
High Level, 93dB  
Note: Refer to the rear panel of the C2300 for the correct  
voltage.  
Phono, 80dB  
Input Impedance  
Overall Dimensions  
High Level, 20K ohms unbalanced, 40k ohms balanced  
Phono MM, 47K ohms; 50 to 750pF, in 50pF steps  
Phono MC, 25, 50, 100, 200, 500 or 1,000 ohms; 100pF  
Width is 17-1/2 inches (44.45cm)  
Height is 6 inches (15.24cm) including feet  
Depth is 18 inches (45.72cm) including the Front Panel,  
Knobs and Cables  
Maximum Input Signal  
High Level, 5V Unbalanced, 10V Balanced  
Phono MM, 50mV  
Weight  
29.5 pounds (13.41 kg) net, 44.9 pounds (20.41 kg) in ship-  
ping carton  
Phono MC, 5mV  
Voltage Gain  
Shipping Carton Dimensions  
Width is 25 inches (63.5cm)  
Depth is 27 inches (68.6cm)  
Height is 12 inches (30.5cm)  
High Level to SRVR(REC) Output: 0dB  
High Level to Main Output: 15dB  
Phono MM to Record Output: 40dB  
Phono MC to Record Output: 60dB  
C2300 Bass and Treble Control Curves  
+12  
+6  
0
dB  
-6  
-12  
20  
50  
100  
200  
500  
1k  
2k  
5k  
10k  
20k  
Hz  
22  
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Packing Instructions  
Packing Instructions  
In the event it is necessary to repack the equipment for  
shipment, the equipment must be packed exactly as shown  
below. It is very important that the four plastic feet are at-  
tached to the bottom of the equipment. This will ensure the  
proper equipment location on the bottom pad. Failure to do  
this will result in shipping damage.  
Use the original shipping carton and interior parts only  
if they are all in good serviceable condition. If a shipping  
carton or any of the interior part(s) are needed, please  
call or write Customer Service Department of McIntosh  
Laboratory. Refer to page 4. Please see the Part List for the  
correct part numbers.  
Quantity Part Number Description  
1
4
033888  
033887  
Shipping carton only  
End cap  
1
1
1
033697  
034414  
034301  
Inside carton only  
Top pad (foam)  
Bottom pad  
4
4
4
017937  
100159  
404080  
Plastic foot  
#10-32 x 3/4” screw  
#10-7/16” Flat washer  
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23  
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McIntosh Laboratory, Inc.  
2 Chambers Street  
Binghamton, NY 13903  
The continuous improvement of its products is the  
policy of McIntosh Laboratory Incorporated who  
reserve the right to improve design without notice.  
Printed in the U.S.A.  
McIntosh Part No. 04102700  
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